OKAACE

For years, the thought of trying to earn my GED terrified me. I had convinced myself I couldn’t pass, and as a mom raising kids, I put my own goals on the back burner. But at 35 years old, something in me shifted and I decided to face my fear and take that first step.

Walking into my local Adult Education program was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The instructors didn’t just teach me, they believed in me. They encouraged me, lifted me up, and gave me the tools and support I needed to succeed. Because of them, I found the confidence to persevere, even when it was hard.

After being out of the workforce for 12 years, I earned my GED and took a job at Amazon to start rebuilding my resume. But the support from Adult Ed didn’t stop after I graduated—they continued to check in on me and cheer me on. When they heard about an opening in the WIOA program they partnered with, they immediately thought of me. Thanks to their recommendation, I got the job as a case manager, helping others on their journey to a better life—many of them working toward their GED just like I had.

Later, I was hired by the local Workforce Board, where I worked with businesses to build opportunities for WIOA participants in our community. What started as a personal journey to earn my GED became a full-circle moment—I was now helping others in the very programs that had changed my life.

Earning my GED didn’t just open doors for me; it set a powerful example for my children. They saw firsthand what determination looks like, and they learned that it’s never too late to reach for something better. Today, I’m proud to say I’m not just part of the workforce—I’m making a difference.

And it all started with the unwavering support of my Adult Education program.

Erin Glass